Focus on Food: Eating to Reduce Inflammation

Although the body naturally responds to injury or illness with inflammation, chronic inflammation can lead to a number of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Controlling inflammation is crucial for seniors because it helps preserve mobility, reduce discomfort, and enhance general well-being. Dietary interventions are one of the easiest ways to address chronic inflammation, and senior home care can help by encouraging seniors to focus on the right foods throughout the day.

Fatty Fish

Omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in fatty fish like trout, sardines, salmon, and mackerel, have been demonstrated to reduce inflammation. Even better? These healthy fats help to counteract the effects of omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess. Seniors should try to include fatty fish in their diet at least twice a week. For seniors who struggle with fish, senior home care can work with them to find recipes they might enjoy.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Leafy greens are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, which are both recognized for their anti-inflammatory qualities. Examples of these greens include Swiss chard, kale, and spinach. Additionally, these greens are high in vitamins A, C, and K, which boost immunity and advance general health. One simple way to increase consumption is to add leafy greens to smoothies, soups, and salads.

Berries

Berries that are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants also have great anti-inflammatory properties. Some examples include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Adding a few berries to cereal for breakfast, desserts, or everyday snacks can be an easy way to reduce inflammation. Additionally, berries are great for seniors on the go.

Seeds and Nuts

Almonds, walnuts, chia, and flaxseeds are great sources of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Additionally, they have a lot of magnesium, which has been associated with reducing inflammation. Even a small serving of nuts or seeds during meals or as a snack can help control inflammation in general.

Tumeric

Tumeric, which contains curcumin, has been shown to be a valuable ally in reducing inflammation. In addition, using turmeric and black pepper together enhances absorption. When it comes to this spice, however, seniors might not be sure how to incorporate it into their meals. This is another area where senior home care can help, introducing meal ideas that are easy and healthy for seniors to try.

Cherry Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and the antioxidant lycopene, which has potent anti-inflammatory effects. This is great news since it’s easy for seniors to add cherry tomatoes to their meals, either in soups or salads. Of course, they’re also good as a snack.

Green Tea

Polyphenols, which have been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties, are abundant in green tea. Plus, green tea is a calming beverage that helps keep seniors hydrated. With these two things in mind, senior home health can encourage seniors to drink green tea throughout the day so they can fully embrace its benefits.

Reducing inflammation with food is a proactive approach to promoting general health. With the help of senior home care, seniors can enhance their quality of life, manage chronic diseases, and reduce discomfort by regularly consuming these anti-inflammatory foods.

Sources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-anti-inflammatory-foods
https://www.webmd.com/diet/anti-inflammatory-diet-road-to-good-health
https://www.usnews.com/topics/subjects/senior-health

If you or an aging loved one is considering senior home care in Walnut Creek, CA, please contact the caring staff at Provident Care Home Care today at (209) 578-1210.